So, school’s out, and we have all been encouraged to social distance ourselves and self-isolate for at least 12 weeks.
For many, this will be easy to do. However, for some, this period of social distancing and being stuck at home may cause panic, confusion, anxiety and fear. Don’t worry; this is perfectly normal.
With so much uncertainty in the air, it’s worth knowing that you are not alone, and these emotions are okay and valid.
We know that while you might not say it, the vast majority of students love going to school. It’s a time where you get to hang out with your friends, laugh and enjoy time and lessons together.
So, if you can’t go to school – how can you make the most of being at home? To help get you through the many weeks of being stuck at home, we have put together a list of seven things you can do to boost your wellbeing, practice self-care as well as being more productive while you’re on “staycation”.
- Early Morning Workouts
It can be very tempting to sleep longer in bed while being at home. Set the alarm as usual and try waking up each morning as you would do if you were going to school. Doing a workout in replace of say walking to school each morning is a great way to still stay fit and healthy its also a great way to maintain your mental health.
There are loads of really great free apps for workouts as well as YouTube. If doing a workout really isn’t your thing, then playing your favourite song and dancing in your bedroom is another great option. Although it may be best to use your headphones for this, so you don’t prompt any shouting from those at home who don’t appreciate loud music in the early morning!
2. Create A Workable Timetable
To make sure you are maximising your time at home, create a workable timetable. This doesn’t just include schoolwork, you need to prioritise your wellbeing too. So make sure you schedule a morning, lunch and afternoon break throughout your day. Better yet, we suggest prepping your lunches and snacks the night before so you can make the most of your break time without being indecisive over what you should make and eat.
Add in some time for exercise between ‘lessons’. Even if that is just running up and down the stairs to allow your mind to switch from one task to the next.
3. Be Creative
Being stuck at home is a great way to tap into your hidden creative side! Now is a great time to learn something new like a foreign language. Perhaps you are a secret wordsmith and can write a blog about your experience of being at home. Now is a great time to find a really great book to read – maybe tick a classic off your book bucket list? If you don’t enjoy reading, why not listen to the book on an app like Audible?
If you dream of the Bake-Off tent or the Masterchef kitchen, then head to the kitchen to try out new recipes. You never know you might just surprise yourself – and they’ll look great on your Instagram too!
Perhaps you like drawing and painting but never had the opportunity to really express or show off your talent. Well, now’s the chance.
Remember, you can only study for so long. And, it’s not healthy to work all the time, either. Instead, trying new and different things can help you find something you really enjoy. You never know where these skills might take you!
4. Stay Connected
You might not be able to have your friends over, but you can still stay connected to them. Social distancing can lead to feelings of loneliness. Plan a digital catch-up with your friends using Facetime or WhatsApp. Give each other TikTok challenges to practice and laugh over.
Remember to reach out to those that may perhaps not be in your regular social group to check on them. Everyone needs to feel wanted and included during this period.
5. Spend Quality Time With Yourself
We don’t often have time to during our regular busy day to spend time alone. Use this time to step back from all the noise and distractions to spend much needed time with yourself. Meditation is a great way to connect with the real you. Daily affirmations are another great way to build up your self-confidence. They can help you build mental resilience which will help you to remain positive during this difficult time.
6. Spring Clean (Trust, Us!)
Cleaning may be the bore of all tasks, but it can be fun and will make you feel super-productive too. You may find things hiding at the back of your wardrobe that you can give to a better home – like to your siblings or a charity.
Decluttering can help to give your bedroom more space and will make it a more enjoyable place to spend time in when everything is neat, tidy and organised.
7. Do Something Kind
Although it’s essential to take care of ourselves, it is also important to take care of those around us. If you can, try and do something nice for your parents, remember they are under immense stress right now. Some parents are having to work from home or continue to go into work, especially if they are a key worker working for the NHS on the frontline.
There are lots of lovely little gestures you can do, like leave a nice post-it note with something positive like a simple thank you message. Maybe make them a cup of tea, or dinner if you’re confident in the kitchen.
In addition, if you have elderly neighbours, why not check on them with a note through their door to see if they are doing well too. You can leave your number on the note so they can contact you back. You may even be able to help run small errands for them, or just be a friend to chat to on the phone if they’re feeling lonely.
Get More Done!
These are just a few ideas that we hope will help you stay more productive and positive while you’re at home. There are more helpful resources online at papyrus-uk.org if you are struggling with your mental health.
Stay safe and well!
